By Ahmad Elnafaty
Kwara State Stadium will witness a fiery Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) encounter between Kwara United and Katsina United this Sunday as both teams are on a two-game winless run.
Making amends for defeats on Matchday 18 will be the goal for both Kwara United and Katsina United in Sunday’s top-flight clash at Kwara Stadium in Ilorin.
The Harmony Boys were bested 2-1 by Rivers United in their previous match. After starting the previous matchday level on points with Katsina United, Kwara United were on course to pull clear of their opponents and move into the top half of the NPFL table. However, two quick strikes from Rivers United then rendered Akeem Akanni’s opener insufficient as the Harmony Boys let victory slip from their grasp.
The Dikko Warriors were their own worst enemy in last weekend’s goalless draw against defending champions Rangers International.
Katsina United head coach Bishir Sadauki arrive in Kwara with a two-game scoreless streak in the top flight, failing to breach both Kano Pillars and Rangers, resulting in a lack of killer touch in front of goal.
Should Katsina United come away from Kwara Stadium with a creditable 0-0 draw to their name, it would mark the first time in their NPFL history that Katsina United have failed to beat them in three consecutive league matches.
Another dissatisfactory result from both clubs could plunge them right back into danger, though—both are just two points clear of the relegation zone—but Kwara United have a game in hand against Enyimba on a date yet to be announced.
As ineffective as Katsina United’s attacking displays were in recent matches, Sadauki’s resolute defensive unit are proving a tough nut to crack and will no doubt make telling contribution on the Kwara turf.
Two sides who are prone to low-scoring NPFL affairs may not serve up a terrific watch for the neutrals, but if there is going to be a decisive goal, it will surely go the hosts’ way.